8 Things You Can Do In Any City That Will Immediately Revitalize You
We all know what it's like to fall into a funk.
When you're faced with the same people, same routine and same never-ending pile of bills, life can be painfully monotonous sometimes.
This problem is compounded by a world of outside factors, from social media envy to abysmal weather conditions.
There's always a reason to be unsatisfied, and there is always someone seemingly more blessed than you.
The key is to find a way to live your best life, no matter your daily circumstances.
Granted, it's easier said than done. Many of us have work obligations, financial commitments and people who depend on us for support.
"Do what makes you happy" is great advice, but it's not always practical.
So, what kinds of things can you start doing now, wherever you are, to help revitalize yourself?
Wellness is closer than you think, and these eight steps will give you a head start.
1. Try saying yes
When you're in a funk, everything seems like a chore. From calling your mother to attending a happy hour with co-workers, you'd rather just not.
Here's a radical idea: Try saying yes for a change.
Hit accept the next time a friend calls you on the phone. Go to that holiday meet-and-greet at your apartment complex.
Worse-case scenario, you go back to making excuses to disengage. Best-case scenario, you actually enjoy yourself.
2. Get active.
Everyone knows the physical benefits of exercise, but did you know there are mental benefits as well?
The CDC found that exercising three to five times a week reduces your risk of depression and can help you sleep better.
Even with reduced daylight hours, you can stay active throughout the year.
Take advantage of the change in seasons and go for walks. Try workout videos at home.
The better you feel physically, the stronger you'll be mentally.
3. Volunteer.
Helping others helps you. It gets you out of the house and interacting with others in a safe and non-judgmental setting.
It allows you to gain perspective about your problems and re-establish your priorities. It also makes you feel good about yourself.
Volunteering is a win all around.
4. Buy yourself something nice.
Ever notice how a new purse or pair of shoes can make you stand up a little straighter, put on makeup and actually want to brush your hair in the morning?
This is especially true for those who constantly take care of others and neglect themselves. Every now and then, you need to be your own cheerleader.
The important thing is not how much you spend, but simply that you acknowledge and reward your own efforts.
5. Wake up earlier.
People who wake up earlier can be more optimistic, efficient and ultimately more successful.
You might be surprised by how much more you can get done in the early morning, or how much time and frustration you save on your daily commute.
Try easing into this change and waking up earlier one day a week or one hour earlier in general.
6. Plan a vacation.
Feeling down? Give yourself something to look forward to.
Like volunteering, traveling gives you a different perspective. Not to mention, planning the trip is half the fun.
Enjoy learning about a new culture and practicing essential phrases in a new language.
On a budget? You don't have to go far to be a tourist, and you can plan a staycation in your own city or state.
7. Join a group.
By nature, humans are social beings. You may be picky about whom you interact with, but there's comfort in camaraderie.
Find your people. Join a group of organization with similar interests, whether that be comic books or kayaking.
There should be no reason you can't actively pursue your interests and have fun while doing so.
8. Meditate.
In "The Power of Now," Eckhart Tolle explains that depression comes from living in the past, and anxiety comes from worrying about the future. He endorses living in the now.
One way to do this is to meditate, even if just for a few minutes a day. You can start by listening to guided meditations on YouTube and go from there.
It may be hard to calm your thoughts at first, but stick with it. Ultimately, you'll find peace of mind.
You're never too stuck to start making changes in your life. Even small things, like a daily meditation or trip into a bookstore you always wanted to visit, can start making your life a little bit brighter.
